Ford's Fusion sedan boasts efficient powertrains, a refined interior, and a wide variety of infotainment and safety technologies. The package is wrapped in an upscale, coupe-inspired design highlighted by an Aston Martin-like grille.

Recent changes

The Fusion now has Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, Lane-Keeping System, and auto high beams.

Overview

As with many recent Ford models, the Fusion traces its roots to Europe, riding on a heavily revised version of the previous Mondeo (Ford's midsize old world sedan) platform. With McPherson struts up front and a new multi-link suspension setup at the rear, Ford promises that the chassis provides an ideal balance between ride comfort and agile handling. Exterior dimensions are up only slightly compared to the outgoing Fusion, but a five-inch longer wheelbase allows for a more spacious and practical cabin.

Practicality is not the first thing that comes to mind when viewing the Fusion's fast roofline and athletic profile, however. Inspired by the sleek Evos concept of 2011, the Fusion features a sporty, upswept stance along with a premium look fostered by the sparing but effective use of chrome on the prominent hexagonal grille and along the side windows.

Inside, flowing lines and contoured shapes displace the straight-edged design of the old car. Soft-touch surfaces abound, and the interior is also quieter than before thanks to acoustic underbody shields that also contribute to the Fusion's efficiency-boosting 0.27 coefficient of drag.

All Fusion models come standard with Ford's Bluetooth-based SYNC connectivity system, which allows smartphone users to place calls and stream music by using voice commands or steering wheel-mounted buttons. It can also read incoming texts aloud to help the driver keep his or her eyes on the road.

Optional on mid-level Fusions and standard on high-end trims is MyFord Touch, which builds on SYNC by letting users control everything from navigation to climate control to the sound system with voice commands. MyFord Touch also replaces conventional knobs and buttons with a center-mounted touchscreen and touch-sensitive controls in the center stack. Many consumers report that the system is a "love it or hate it" item, so those interested in the Fusion are advised to try before they buy.

Powertrain lineup

While the entry-level engine is a carryover 2.5-liter unit with 175 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, Ford expects most buyers will choose the 1.5-liter EcoBoost mill. This turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder produces 181 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque.

Those looking for more power can opt for the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which produces 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.

Finally, individuals who want a V6 need to step up to the Fusion Sport, which has a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. The six-cylinder generates 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque when burning 93-octane gasoline.

The 2.5-, 1.5-, 2.0-, and 2.7-liter engines all come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Front-wheel-drive is the default configuration for the Fusion, while all-wheel-drive is available as a traction-enhancing option. Note that the Fusion Sport only ships with all-wheel drive.

Fuel economy is rated at 22/34 city/highway mpg for the 2.5-liter mill; 25/37 mpg 1.6-liter unit; 22/33 mpg and 22/31 mpg for the 2.0-liter motor with FWD and AWD, respectively; and 23/37 for the 1.5 when fitted with a start/stop system.

Trim level breakdown

The Fusion is available in S, SE, SEL, Titanium, and V6 Sport trim levels.

Highlights from the list of standard features include air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors and locks, an AM/FM/CD stereo with four speakers, cruise control, automatic headlamps, remote keyless entry, Ford's SYNC communications and entertainment system and 16-inch alloy wheels.

More upmarket variants benefit from niceties such as 17-inch alloys, a 10-way power driver seat, a six-way power passenger seat, a center folding armrest and A/C ducts for the rear passengers, two extra speakers for the sound system, SIRIUS satellite radio and body color rocker moldings.

Fusion Hybrid

The fuel-saving Fusion Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that runs on the economical Atkinson cycle and an AC synchronous electric motor linked to a lithium-ion battery pack.

With a continuously variable transmission sending power efficiently to the front wheels, the setup is good for EPA-certified mileage of 44 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Some drivers have reported significantly lower real-world mileage, however, and achieving maximum mpgs requires a very light right foot.

With its gasoline and electric motors working in conjunction, total system output is 188 horsepower.

Occupant safety

All Fusion models come standard with dual front, front knee, front side and side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems, a tire pressure monitoring system and emergency brake assist.

Key competitors

The Fusion is aimed right at the heart of the mid-size sedan segment, counting perennial top-ten bestsellers like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord as its main rivals. Its strongest domestic competition comes in the form of the Chevrolet Malibu.